Pastor’s eNote: Weekly Update

I am thankful for Dr. Doug Strong and his message this last Sunday about the ascension of Jesus. Knowing that Jesus is still with us, even in these days, is a source of comfort and joy.

It was also a great joy to celebrate with the seven graduates in our church this year. Every rite of passage like this is an opportunity for our church community to gather around people with gratitude for God’s work in each of their lives.

You may have noticed a change in how we talk about our graduates in worship. Beyond celebrating each of them, we pointed to how each of them is being sent forth in ministry and vocation from us into the world. This change in the way we talk about graduation is important.

1. With the cost of living so high in Seattle, many grads do not stay in our community too long after they graduate.
2. Many in our church met their spouse while a student at SPU. Fewer and fewer people are dating, much less getting married. As of 2025, there are more single people in Seattle than married.
3. Jobs are harder to come by in our community at present. AI will likely impact entry-level jobs even more in just a few short years.

When referring to our graduates, we pray and live as a “sending” church at FFMC. While some graduates will be with us for some time, many will locate in a new setting. For them, we want to be a church home where they are nurtured and prepared for life in ministry no matter their chosen vocation.

Join with me in praying for all our graduates. Pray that they find the exact place they need to be to serve God in grace. May we be a church that supports them along their way. As Dr. Strong said, “God be with ye!” to all of them.

Grace to You All,

Pastor Craig Brown
(June 3, 2025)